At a glance

Your chance to

At a glance

7 nights at 2-4 star hotels, including 1 night restored kasbah

Enjoy fantastic off-road riding through beautiful scenery

Get away from the cold, wet British winter and ride past ancient kasbahs, through deep sandstone gorges and over high mountain passes. Designed to be a little less demanding than our Atlas Descent trip, this ride is an ideal first mountain bike holiday. There is still plenty of adventure to be had in this spectacular desert region, including the challenge of the mighty Bab n’Ali climb, where your reward for reaching the top of the climb is stunning views of the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains. We end the week in Marrakech, one of the most amazing cities in Africa.

Itinerary

2Day 2From the lofty Tizi-n-Tinnififft pass, we ride past lush palmeries and isolated villages to small town of Agdz.

We start off with an hour long transfer over the pass of Tizi n'Tinififft (1700m). The riding then starts and we enjoy a 3km tarmac descent! The views are magnificent overlooking Jebel Kissane. Shortly after our initial descent we turn onto one of the gritty jeep trails which are found all over the region. There is a short optional visit to a small cascade before lunch. After the trail becomes slightly more technical for a short section leading to a tarmac section to the town of Agdz. A final fast, smooth piste crossing the river, passing many palmeries and isolated berber villages takes us directly to our hotel next to Kasbah Tamnougault.
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3Day 3Ride through the fertile Draa Valley passing numerous kasbahs and finish in the desert gateway town of Zagora.

We start with a short visit to the beautiful and historic Tamnougault Kasbah, set amidst the lush, irrigated green fields and palmeries of the Draa Valley. We then ride a short singletrack section exploring the palmeries, which leads us to an undulating piste nestled below the dramatic, near-vertical valley walls. Along the way some optional singletrack sections are on offer before we arrive in the small village of Tansikht. We transfer the last 60km by road, following the river into the desert gateway town of Zagora. You are now only 52 days by camel from Timbuktu!

4Day 4Ride into the heart of the Jebel Sahro, a nomadic tribal land; overnight in N'kob.

After a scenic 15km transfer, we return to the Draa Valley and follow the piste as it rolls along the valley floor towards the beautifully remote Jebel Sahro region. The scenery gradually changes, becoming drier and rockier as we follow the escarpment wall. Many Berber villages and kasbahs line the route and during the winter months nomads can also be seen tending their flock among the hills. The ride offers up to 55km off-road after which we will load the bikes onto the 4x4s and take a short transfer to the small oasis village of Nkob with its many mud brick ksours (castles).
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5Day 5A more challenging first crossing the Jebel Sahro, before tackling the optional climb of Bab n'Ali; to Boumalne Dades.

The hardest day of the trip, but the effort is well rewarded, with stunning views over the Jebel Sahro, an excellent descent and a visit to the amazing rock formations at Bab n'Ali. 'Bab' means gate and these are two spectacular rock pillars set in the heart of the wild and rugged Jebel Sahro. From here, it is a challenging 16km climb to the top of the 2200m Tizi n'Tazzazert pass (approx. 900m ascent). The climb is naturally optional, though the reward in terms of both the views and the achievement is well worthwhile. Those transferring to the top of the climb are still left with 15km of scenic trail; which is mostly downhill. At the end of the ride, a 30km transfer takes us to our hotel in Boumalne-Dades, at the head of the impressive Dades Gorge.
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6Day 6Superb final ride through the beautiful Dades Valley; free time in the afternoon to visit Kasbah Ait Benhaddou.

We leave directly from the hotel this morning and ride the first 10km on tarmac passing through the small town of Boumalne and the beautiful river views of the Dades Valley. We turn off initially onto a bumpy piste, to begin the last day's exploration of this extraordinary region. An undulating ride through the spectacular red rock desert walls brings us to the village of Bou Thrar. From here, there is a final 5km (400m) climb to a 2000m pass from where it is possible to overlook both the High Atlas to the north and the Jebel Sahro to the south. What goes up must come down, and we are rewarded with a final blast downhill across the remote desert plains. From here we transfer (approx. 2 hours) to the stunning 11th Century UNESCO protected Kasbah Ait Behaddou. In the late afternoon there is time to visit the famous kasbah, which was the set for many films including Gladiator, before relaxing at the hotel pool/bar.

7Day 7Morning transfer to Marrakech and free time to wander the Medina and the incomparable Djemaa el Fna Square.

After an early morning transfer to Marrakech, we enjoy a day exploring the vibrant 'Pink City' soaking up the atmosphere and setting, with views of snow-capped peaks in the background. The town is a maze of bustling bazaars, palaces and mosques. Today is free for individual sightseeing - so you can choose whether to brave bartering in one of the many souks, visiting the more peaceful Jardin Majorelle or relaxing in one of the hammam steam baths. In the evening, we can visit the Djemma el Fna, the open air central square around which Marrakech revolves. The name literally means 'place of death' as it was the place where the Sultans used to display the heads of their enemies. Now with the snake charmers, water sellers, travelling musicians, acrobats and food stalls, it is an entertaining and colourful experience for both Moroccan and overseas visitors.See more images and videos

What's not included

Accommodation details

Hotels & Kasbah

We us a mixture of 2 and 4-star hotels, all accommodation is clean and comfortable with good en suite facilities. You can expect a warm welcome and great hospitality throughout the trip. For a real insight into Moroccan life we spend one night in a beautifully restored Kasbah.

Essential info

Vaccinations and Visa
No visa required by British passport holders.
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Tetanus, Tetanus and Hepatitis A. Holiday style

This trip is classified off road and graded B - Moderate.
5 days cycling, average 45km/day, 80% off road, 100% vehicle support.
The tracks are mostly vehicle-width with occasional singletrack options. Reasonably good dirt and gravel trails, though occasionally rough and rocky. 60% of this trip is cross-country type riding, though there are some big climbs (up to 16km), which are all optional as support vehicles are available to give lifts whenever people wish.
This is the ideal introduction to off road riding as long as you have a moderate level of fitness and an adventurous approach. Some off-road cycling experience, including ascents and descents over loose, rocky or rutted surfaces is recommended for this trip.

Eating & drinking

Moroccan food is, generally speaking, excellent though not particularly varied. Breakfasts usually consists of bread, croissants and jam with tea or coffee and freshly squeezed orange juice. Meals eaten out are reasonably priced. In main towns it is possible to find very good French and Moroccan restaurants where a meal and French wine will cost anything from GBP20 (USD30) and upwards.

Vegetarians can be catered for but there is a fairly limited choice of vegetarian cous cous and tajine or omelettes. This is particularly the case during the more rural sections of the trip.
Please note that if you have any special dietary requirements you should inform the Exodus Office prior to the trip. If you have a specific medical/dietary need (i.e. coeliac or vegan) you may find it helpful to bring some items of food with you from home.
Your mineral drinking water is included whilst cycling.

Trip notes

Download the detailed trip notes for everything you could possibly want
to know about this trip, including detailed itinerary and full kit list.

Weather & seasonality

Mountains can always make their own weather and as a result we may occasionally be forced to amend the itinerary for part of the trip, particularly on days that involve river crossings. On the plains, the days are usually warm to hot (above 25degC) but the nights are cooler. In the higher areas and the mountains, days should be warm or even hot in October and April, with clear skies, but the nights are often cold. Rainfall in the areas we visit is relatively low though there is a chance of rain particularly on trips in December, January and February. Although unusual, there is also the possibility of much colder weather during these times.

Reviews & community

An awesome mountain biking experiences with varying terrain and technical difficulties, definitely not for those without some basic off road experience. If you enjoy rugged, boulder strewn tracks and fast downhill sandy runs then this is for you, you can't take your eye off the road for a second.......truley full on.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

managing to complete the optional 16km ascent to 2300m and not being wiped out by some of the tracks.

What did you think of your group leader?

Radu knows his sport, an excellant moutain biker willing to teach you the basics or give advice on improving your technique. He managed to get us all through safely and fitted in well with the group and took time out individually with all of us.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The trip is graded as "Moderate" ..........for this trip "moderate" means, have off road skills, physically fit and be prepared for a hard days ride.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you are travelling outside the summer period bring extra layers for the night and early morning starts.

It was a great sporty holiday in a beautiful part of South Morroco and mostly off the beaten track.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I was in awe of some travellers' fitness and was pleased I pushed my physical limits a little and managed to cycle as much as I did (without any previous experience). The scenery was truly stunning, from lush oases in the valleys, to the rugged hills, to the old villages, ksour and kasbahs. I also really liked the fact that we were pretty much on our own, not surrounded by lots of tourists everywhere.

What did you think of your group leader?

Liz was brilliant. She worked really hard organising our bikes, meals, travels all the time. Very friendly and sociable, looked after us well. The local team were great too, friendly and helpful.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I believe the rating for this trip should be moderate to challenging or require previous experience. Some of the terrain and hills were really tough, for me at least since I had no previous experience. I thought I was fit, but obviously not cyclying-fit! I still had a great time.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Looking forward to my next Exodus adventure! I think the trips are very well organised and highly recommend you. Thanks for a great holiday.

A fantastic trip. Ordinarily I'm more likely to be found on a spinning bike than a mountain bike, so I'm quite fit. I have some experience of mountain biking upto red route standard. This trip was perfect for me, with enough to challenge my fitness with a couple of decent up hills , but without taking me to out of my comfort zone. The accommodation was basic, as was the food, but it was all authentic, adding to the overall experience. Great guides and a real mix of people all added to the enjoyment. Looking forward to my next cycling experience .

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Watching all those who finished the 16 km climb cross the finishing line

What did you think of your group leader?

Liz was fantastic. Taking the time to get to know all the group members and helping them to get the best out of their mountain bike experience .

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you have good padded shorts, well fitting sunglasses and a willingness to move just far enough out of your comfort zone and you will love this holiday.

Questions about your trip

Is there a bottle cage on the Moroccan bikes?

Yes, but we strongly recommend taking a Camelback or other bladder style water system, as it makes cycling and refueling much easier!

Ian Langford - Sales

Can you always guarantee a bike available to hire locally?

‘In-country’ bike hire should be arranged at the time of booking, and the cost will be added to your invoice. Please note that there are a limited number of bikes available locally. We always have to match a person's height to the bike frame size and, as there are a limited amount of each size, we cannot always guarantee availability of the correct frame. Therefore it is recommended you add the local bike hire as early as possible.

Andy Ross - Product Manager

Anything I shouldn't miss in Marrakech?

Marrakech is truly a taste of Morocco at it's best. Grab a seat in the huge main square, the Djemma el Fna, and watch the world go by while sipping some mint tea. It's been a place of entertainment for locals for hundreds of years and is packed with everything from food stalls to snake charmers! The Majorelle and Menara gardens are also well worth a visit, and offer some peace in the middle of this hectic city.

At night, anyone looking for somewhere to chill out in the heart of the medina should try the Café Arabe, which has some of the best modern Moroccan food around, as well as great views from their rooftop terrace!

Kim Christie - Customer Operations

What is Moroccan food like?

Moroccan cuisine is very diverse, with many influeneces due to the interaction of Morocco with the outside world for centuries. The cuisine of Morocco is a mix of Berber, Moorish, Mediterranean and Arab influences. The main Moroccan dish most people are familiar with is couscous, usually eaten with beef or lamb. Chicken is also very common and the importance of seafood is increasing, especially on the coast. Vegetarians won't have any problems either, although choice can be more limited in remote locations.

The common and tasty tajine is everywhere, a mouth watering stew with meat and vegetables. Green tea with mint is the drink of choice, and you can pick up bocadillos (sandwiches) from street stalls everywhere - you won't go hungry!

Olly Leicester - Sales

What is the best way to take money to Morocco?

The Moroccan currency is the Dirham and cannot be imported or exported, as it is a 'closed' currency. We suggest you take your personal spending money in good condition notes, either in £, Euros or US$. Local costs - it depends! - £2-4 per day to cover postcards, small souvenirs, soft drinks etc; £15 a day for food is fine (if it's not included).

Danuta Janik - Morocco Operations

What kind of clothing is best in a Muslim country?

You are visiting a predominantly Muslim country, therefore you should dress modestly at all times when visiting cultural sites, and there may also be times when you are asked to 'cover up'. During your trip the tour leader will always advise you on appropriate dress for each day's activities.

If you are asked to 'cover up', you'll need to cover your shoulders, arms and legs. We recommend packing lightweight trousers or a long skirt, and a long sleeved shirt. Women may also be required to cover their hair with a scarf if entering a mosque or religious quarters.

Jim Eite - Product Manager

Will Ramadan affect my trip?

Please note that the holy month of Ramadan will take place during specific dates each year, the actual dates will be listed in the respective Trip Notes. This is a time when followers of Islam do not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. This can sometimes affect the opening hours of certain tourist sites. However we will ensure that that the itinerary is affected as little as possible if you travel during this period. Food and drink is available to tourists during the day.

Brendan Phelan - Customer Operations

Exodus staff - expertise on hand to help

All the staff at Exodus share a passion for adventure travel, and are always happy to answer any questions you may have. You can find an expert for the area you are interested in here and can contact them to get further information. If you don't see your specific country listed, please email customerops@exodus.co.uk and they will get the answers you need!

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